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Oct 30, 2008

A five Concert tour of Australia's Arts Capital, Melbourne, has brought recognition to New York's resident Trio: The New York Harp Trio and gathered attention for young composer Rob Paterson .

The Trio (Flute Harp and Viola), visited Australia for three weeks, performing at the various Spring Music Festivals and giving master-classes at the University of Melbourne, the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA), and at the Australian National Academy of the Arts.

With the aid of a monetary award from the American Australian Association, the three musicians boarded a Qantas airbus for 23 hours, and played in sold out halls all over the State of Victoria.

"We were hopeful that Australian audiences would be receptive of a modern program" said Peter Bucknell, violist. "Rob Paterson's piece: "Embracing the Wind" was a huge hit, especially as it was inspired by the 2000 olympics in Sydney. The crowds were extremely attentive in Melbourne. We found a real depth there."

The two (rather gorgeous) girls were seeing Australia for the first time, and were impressed with its natural beauty:"Our tour manager gave us 3 days off, and we all learned to surf!" said flutist, Anna Povich de Mayor. "We needed a break as we had several concerts and master classes throughout the tour, and the jet-lag hits you pretty hard at the beginning. The performances were pretty flawless as we were so well prepared; We knew there would be time to see the wineries and drive the Great Ocean road so we rehearsed thoroughly before leaving New York."

Harpist in the Trio: Bridget Kibbey, who recently released her acclaimed debut CD: ""Love is Come Again" sold all of the cds in her suitcase after just one concert. "The Trio played really well" said Kibbey, "the audiences were so involved in our performances in Australia, and there was lots of interest from presenters and other festivals. We've been invited back in 2010."

The New York Harp Trio performed at Bendigo's Soulfood Festival (link), the Port Fairy Festival, The Peninsula Arts Festival in Sorrento, the National Academy of Music (ANAM), and Melbourne University.